Court to Decide on Hospital’s Challenge in Nkanu Adichie-Esege Death Inquest

The Lagos State High Court in Ikoyi is set to rule on October 12, 2026, regarding a request from Eurapharma Care Services Nigeria Limited. The hospital operates Euracare Multi-Specialist Hospital, where Nkanu Adichie-Esege, the son of author Chimamanda Adichie and Dr. Ivara Esege, died on January 7, 2026. The hospital wants to stop a coroner’s inquest into the boy’s death.

The court heard arguments about whether the hospital should present its evidence before the family has made their case. The hospital claims this puts them in a difficult position since they are facing allegations of poor medical care. They argue that they should not have to start their defense until the family has presented their evidence.

Another key issue is whether the inquest can continue after Nkanu’s remains were cremated. The hospital’s lawyer, Prof. Taiwo Osipitan, argued that without the body, it is impossible to determine the cause of death accurately. He claimed that the law requires the presence of the deceased’s body for the inquest to proceed.

The family’s lawyer, Kemi Pinheiro, opposed the hospital’s request, stating it was premature. He argued that the coroner has not made any significant decisions yet, and the hospital’s concerns should be addressed during the inquest itself.

The Lagos State Attorney-General, Lawal Pedro, also supported the continuation of the inquest. He stated that the law allows it to proceed even if the body is not available. Other parties involved, including Atlantis Paediatric Hospital, echoed this sentiment, urging the court to dismiss the hospital’s application.

The court’s ruling on October 12 will determine if the hospital’s challenges can be considered at this stage and whether the inquest can continue despite the cremation of Nkanu’s remains.